Is it Time to Give up Your El Paso Area Kia Keys to Your Teen?

May 28, 2015

Has your newly-licensed teen driver been pestering you for the keys to your precious ride? When a teen begins driver, the experience can be overwhelming for everyone involved. A lot of questions swim in and out of your mind, and sometimes the scenarios drown you. What things should you consider before giving your teen driver the keys? El Paso area Kia has questions for parents who can’t decide whether or not to give up the keys.

Is your teen responsible?

Responsibility means different things to different families. If your teen consistently shows good judgment, reflection, discipline, and kindness, he/she is likely a responsible teen. Responsible teens attend school regularly, have a job or help out around the house, and make smart decisions when faced with uncertain or dangerous situations.

Is your teen willing to help out with errands?

To accept the keys means to accept some of the responsibilities that come with the privilege. Teens must be willing to help you out when they have your keys. Errands can include running to the store, picking grandma up at the airport, putting gas in the car, or running a younger sibling to practice.

Is your teen willing to sign a safe-driving contract with you?

Safe-driving contracts are essential for new teen drivers and parents. The contract must state the expectations for vehicle use and the consequences associated with breaking the rules. If your teen is resistant to the idea, he/she is not ready to accept the responsibilities associated with driving.

How much behind-the-wheel time has your teen had?

Is your teen a confident driver? How much time did you spend with your teen, teaching him/her how to drive? Experience is necessary to keep your teen safe behind the wheel. Give your teen as many opportunities as possible to gain practice with you.

What are your teen’s grades like in school?

Good grades are often a condition listen in many teen driving contracts. Good grades reveal a lot more about your teen than good academic standing. If your teen is truly struggling in a class, consider making driving privileges contingent upon the teen getting tutoring the in the challenging subject.

Does your teen respect you and the house rules?

If your teen does not respect you or the rules of the house, he/she will have a difficult time following the rules and laws of the road and the enforcement agencies that enforce them.

Does your teen cave to peer pressure?

Be honest with yourself about this question. How resilient is your teen to peer pressure. Caving to peer pressure can have serious consequences, especially when it involves getting behind the wheel. Responsibility and maturity are influenced by the ability to handle peer pressure.